Achanto denied request for release

by Mindy Aguon

Guam - Timothy Achanto was denied his request for bail today after asking that he be released to three third-party custodians. Achanto pleaded not guilty to charges of vehicular homicide for the deaths of Toma Kapua and Murphy Sewell on New Year's Day.  Four other people were injured in the crash that occurred in East Agana.

Assistant Attorney General Stephen Leon Guerrero opposed the defendant's release, saying he is a danger to the people of Guam and faces significant jail time if convicted.  Defense Attorney Annie Gayle, however, argued that through the course of the case the defense would present evidence that Achanto was not the person behind the wheel of the truck at the time of the crash. 

Judge Elizabeth Barrett Anderson denied bail and a criminal trial setting is set for July 12.